Has anyone here had to replace a leaking heater core on their F355. My heater core is in fact leaking. Replacement options include: Complete new heater box assembly (new from Ferrari $2500 +) or Wrecking Yard unit ($1500). Does anyone have insight on alternatives to a complete new box unit and the option of bypassing the entire heater core(no heat)?
Hi Lawwdog, why don't you pull it and see what's wrong with it first. You might find that the matrix isn't leaking, and that it's coming from the electric pump or inlet/outlet tubing. Depending on the severity of the problem you could probably get it refurbished at a radiator specialist. You may even find someone who will build-up an exact replacement for you. I'm not sure about the custom & practice in the 'states, but here in England it's not too difficult to find small companies who re-furb radiators and heater matrixes & it will cost a lot less than $1,500
The actual core /matrix is leaking. The heater core in the 355 has a complete enclosed plastic housing around it. I don't doubt that a radiatir specialist could repair it, however, you cannot get the heater core out without completly braking the plastic box and it's entire surrounding. I didn't know if anyone has already found away around this or..just replace the entire unit since there appears to be no alternative. Mario
lawwdog, the heater a/c box is held in place by three bolts and is fairly easy to remove and replace. the heater core and a/c core are side by side inside the box. The box itself is two halfs connected together about a dozen philips screws. you have to remove the box to take it apart, but as I said its not that difficult to do. You should be able to have a radiator repair shop fix a leak. Hope this helps I think it would worth a try instead of replacing the whole box.
